Fix Leaks, Floods and Sewage Issues - Who to Call
Leaks, floods, backups and blockages can create hazards. Occasionally a portion of a water or sewer system can break down on private or public property. Sometimes leaks, floods and sewage problems on your property can be easily traced. If the water or sewage system problem appears to be off of your property and on the public side you may need to contact us to get the problem repaired.
Who to Call
Follow this guide to determine the steps to detect and resolve your problem with water leaks, flooding and sewage issues.
Note: Sometimes, the same issue can be solved by both The City and a plumber. When the guide says to call both 403-342-8750 and a plumber, call 403-342-8750 first and describe your situation. In certain instances where you are advised to call a plumber, you may be able to repair the problem yourself.
| Type of problem (Sanitary & Storm Sewer, Water) | Call 403-342-8750 | Call a plumber |
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| A plugged street drain or catch basin Note: Keep drains clear of leaves or snow from your sidewalks and driveways |
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| Manhole or storm grate cover missing | |
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| Animals trapped in catch basins or manholes |
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| Flooding in streets causing traffic and/or pedestrian hazards in busy areas |
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| Water/sewage gushing out of a manhole or water system cover in streets, lanes, and/or other areas (parks/grassy areas) |
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| Basement plumbing fixtures drain slowly | |
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| Bubbling sounds and/or gushes in floor drains and plumbing fixtures accompanied with sewer odours Note: Crews may be cleaning sewer lines in your area. Pour fresh water in your floor drains and plumbing fixtures to prevent sewer odour. |
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| An overflowing toilet, floor or shower drain, tub or sink located in your home or business |
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| An overflowing storm water sump | |
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| Water seeping in through the basement walls or foundation and pooling on the floor |
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| Sewer odour inside your home or business | |
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| Sewer back-ups in your home or business | |
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| Cloudy or brown water from your taps or your neighbour's taps (called turbidity), which doesn't clear up even after cold water taps are run for 15 minutes |
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| Water discoloured, has a poor taste, or smell - Spring Run-off |
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| No water flowing from all taps in your home or in your neighbour's homes. First check to make sure that nobody is doing repairs or maintenance where they may have shut water off internally. |
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| Sudden drop in water pressure in your entire home, and several neighbours are affected |
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| Low water pressure or no water flowing from any taps in your home, and none of your neighbours are affected |
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| Water bubbling up on the private property portion of your lawn or yard |
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| Sound of water running in pipes when all taps are shut |
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| Sudden high water pressure | |
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| Excessively hot water, or no hot water at all. Also check with your gas utility billing provider |
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| Low water pressure in only one faucet, tap or fixture |
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| Water does not work in one area of your home, or water pipes may be frozen |
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| Service valve needs to be raised or lowered or is damaged, missing a cap or leaking |
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